We noticed that you're using an unsupported browser. The TripAdvisor website may not display properly. We support the following browsers:
Windows:Internet Explorer,
Mozilla Firefox,
Google Chrome.
Mac:Safari.

One of the few places where bunraku, traditional Japanese pupper theater,...

One of the few places where bunraku, traditional Japanese pupper theater, can be enjoyed, this theater combines the latest in theater technology with architectural elements from the Edo period in Japan.

Bunraku was for sure a very interesting form of art! Never seen anything like that before. Unfortunately you couldn't understand what they were saying (obviously) if you don't speak japanese... But interesting indeed!

An afternoon at the National Bunraku Theater was a highlight of our trip to Japan. Bunraku began in Osaka and is drawn from kabuki theatrical traditions. It uses elaborate puppets--large ones, maybe half the size of people--and scenery to act out serious dramas. The main repertoire seems to be from the 18th- and 19th-centuries.
The most important caution I want...
More

What a place and what an experience!! Enjoyed the elegant and meticulous performance of this traditional puppet art. All of the performance was in Japanese and it grows on you. Ushers brought us a. English translation of the story which made it more enjoyable. Our friends also helped us with a synopsis. The experience was unforgettable.

Kabuki mixed with the tireless detail of Japanese arts are featured in Bunraku. These are serious plays (same plays performed in kabuki) acted out with elaborate puppets. You can easily get lost in the story and the fine detail of the puppets. Definitely pick up an English audio guide to understand the full story, context, symbolism, and action on the...
More

Had human sized puppets that are handled by puppeteers who dressed in black. Fun and interesting for all ages. The show is divided into several sections, you can choose to watch one or add sections. Bus pass holder may be able to get a discount, don't forget to ask

Attending a performance at the National Bunraku Puppet Theatre in Osaka is a highlight. Check the schedules in advance, as the troupe only performs at certain times of the year.
It is fascinating to see and hear how the troupe works together to bring these puppets to life. You haven't seen teamwork and discipline until you have seen one of...
More

The National Bunraku Theater in Osaka is located on Nippombashi Street near the Nippombashi subway station. This is around the busy Dotonbori district. I had heard of the Bunraku art form many years ago, so this was one of the first places I "bee lined" toward upon our arrival in Osaka. Bunraku is a large sized puppet show. The puppets...
More

If you are in Osaka and have the opportunity to see a real Bunraku performance at this venue - do it. The plays are rather long at around 4 hours which is a bit daunting,but there is plenty going on and it is very interesting to watch the narrator or singer(s) and shamisen players telling the story-even if you don't...
More

The Japanese puppetry is simply amazing. There is something very beautiful about seeing this age old art being so alive in the contemporary Japanese society today. If you are in town, you must not miss this unique opportunity!

* TripAdvisor LLC is not a booking agent and does not charge any service fees to users of our site... (more)

We noticed that you're using an unsupported browser. The TripAdvisor website may not display properly. We support the following browsers:
Windows:Internet Explorer,
Mozilla Firefox,
Google Chrome.
Mac:Safari.

TripAdvisor LLC is not responsible for content on external web sites. Taxes, fees not included for deals content.